Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Kipchumba Murkomen believes that Harambee Stars can bounce back from their disappointing performance against Cameroon when they meet again on Monday, October 14, 2024. The team suffered a significant 4-1 defeat at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé, hindering their hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
While acknowledging that the 4-1 loss was not the anticipated outcome, Murkomen expressed confidence in the team’s determination to secure three points against the Indomitable Lions.
“Well done, lads! Great effort against a really tough opponent. We stand together, win or lose. What matters most is the determination you showed to try and get a result,” Murkomen’s statement, released late on Friday night, October 11, 2024, read in part.
Following the defeat, Harambee Stars dropped to third place in Group J with four points, three behind leaders Cameroon, who now have seven points after three matches. Zimbabwe has also moved ahead of Kenya into second place after narrowly defeating Namibia 1-0, giving Zimbabwe five points from two draws and a win.
Despite the standings, Murkomen has encouraged the players to remain optimistic ahead of the return leg against the Indomitable Lions, which will be held in Kampala, Uganda. He urged Engin Firat’s charges to stick together and prepare for this crucial match in their qualification campaign.
“Today wasn’t to be, but we look forward to the next one where we can achieve a positive outcome. Keep your heads up. No room for despair. We go again on Monday. Stronger together!” Murkomen told the Harambee Stars players.
How the match went:The troubles for Harambee Stars began in the eighth minute when the referee awarded Cameroon a penalty after determining that Eric Ouma ‘Marcelo’ had handled the ball in the area. Cameroon captain Vincent Aboubakar stepped up and sent Patrick Matasi the wrong way, breaking the deadlock for the home team.
